Effect of injectable vitamin and trace element administrations during transition period on fertility in Brown Swiss dairy cows

Abstract

This study examined the effects of injectable vitamin and trace element combination during the transition period on clinical-biochemical parameters and reproductive performance in Brown Swiss dairy cows. Sixty multiparous cows were randomly allocated two groups as trace element-vitamin treated (n=30) and control (n=30). Animals received four injections at the beginning of the dry period, 21 days before parturition, the day of parturition, and postpartum 30±5 days. Energy, protein, hepatic metabolism markers, blood mineral levels concentrations were measured at -7±4 days antepartum, 3±2 days, and 30±5 days postpartum. Genital tract examinations were performed at 30±5 day postpartum. Treated cows showed lower glucose, total protein, urea, and greater NEFA concentration -7±4 days relative to calving. Effect of vitamin and trace element on serum calcium and phosphorus levels were significant. The total pregnancy rate was 95.8% and 59.09%, in treatment and control groups respectively at 150 days postpartum (P<0.05). In conclusion, trace element and vitamin supplementation increased pregnancy rate significantly and treatment positively affected energy, ion metabolism, and hepatic function.